Your first family ski holiday is an exciting time for both you and the kids. Not only do they get to see a completely new setting, but they also get to try an activity that they may grow to love – and you get to experience all of that with them.
If you’re unsure of what to look out for on your first family ski trip, we give you a full breakdown, so everyone can enjoy themselves.
On the piste:
If this is your first trip as a family, it is imperative to ensure that the resort you choose has the right terrain for your family. Many beginners find Les Deux Alpes to be a great choice. It hosts the regular nursery slopes found in most resorts while having 34 blue runs, perfect once you’ve found your ski legs.
Due to its location, beginner skiers have the luxury of the E.S.F Ski School instructors. With some of the most rigorous instructor standards in the world and the newly unveiled ‘Ski Voice Network, ‘ students can always hear their instructor’s words of encouragement. Think about booking the kids into lessons in the morning; this way, they’ll explore all the slopes early on and be able to put this into practice soon after.
Off the piste:
When booking your first family ski holiday, the non-skiing amenities can often make or break the entire experience. Nothing is worse than coming off the mountain exhausted and struggling to find a restaurant to feed the family. French and Swiss resorts tend to be the priciest in terms of food and drink, so you may wish to try resorts such as Vogel in Slovenia.
Many resorts also have swimming pools or spas, which can be a great place to take your little ones if you’re ready for a few hours off the slopes.
What to pack:
Packing for a family ski holiday in Europe can seem impossible, especially when accommodating children who might resist some essentials. Make sure to research the average temperatures and wind speeds of your destination. Being cold is a surefire way to make you miserable on the mountain.
You can rent skis, boots, poles, helmets, and goggles at rental shops. This means you’ll only need to worry about your jacket, salopettes, gloves, and socks. Skiers also need to look out for sunburn whilst skiing. It’s incredibly easy to forget that sunburn can occur when it’s still -5’c, but factor 50 suncream and lip balm are a must when on the slopes. Make sure to top the kids up throughout the day with suncream and apply a soothing lotion later on in the evening.
Bring clothes for whatever post-skiing activities you plan to participate in, as there is more to the resort than just skiing.
How to prepare:
Skiing is an active sport, and you’ll work out muscles you didn’t know you had. Making the entire family exercise or follow a small training plan can ensure you’ll all be ready to tackle the snow. There are also a range of dry and indoor ski slopes across the UK. These are perfect for getting a few lessons before a ski holiday.
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